Easter - Let us be glad and rejoice

In southeastern California there is a 282-foot gorge they call Death Valley. It is the lowest elevation in the Western Hemisphere and the hottest as well. It has gotten as high as 134 degrees. Less than two inches of rain fall in the valley each year and whatever streams are created evaporate immediately.

Several years ago, however, the barren waste-land received an amazing nineteen straight days of rain. Suddenly the bone-dry earth came to life. Seeds that had been dormant for years burst into bloom and Death Valley became, at least for a while, a misnomer. One of my favorite images comes from the Advent season where it says that desert will bloom.

This analogy of Death Valley is a powerful symbol of Easter. By virtue of Jesus' saving death and resurrection, all that was dead now lives. Beauty transcends the ugly. I'm sure that if we look at our lives we can identify with the barren seeds lying on the floor of Death Valley. Our world seems dead because of despair, violence, addiction and brokenness. Easter is a time to roll back the stone in our lives that prevents us from loving. Through the water of Baptism, sin and death are conquered; we are called today to embrace life and turn away from death.

In Romans we hear it said that death had no more power over Jesus. It is the same in our lives. Depression has no more power over us. Addiction has no more power over us. Violence has no more power over us.

The Russian Orthodox people have a wonderful custom of enjoying big meals on the day after Easter. They sit around and tell jokes. They tell jokes to remember the big joke God played on Satan. Satan thought he had won on Good Friday. Jesus was puton trial, whipped and crucified. It was the triumph of death and darkness. But then on Easter God rose His Son from the dead. Let us rejoice in this wonderful "joke" this Easter. "This is the day the Lord has made. Let us be glad and rejoice in it."

Fr. Bob Hawkins - MARCH 23, 2008

Welcome to Father Angelo Carusi visiting pastor from Blessed Sacrament Church

This weekend we welcome Father Angelo Carusi to our parish. Presently, he is the pastor of Blessed Sacrament Church in Providence. Blessed Sacrament is our sister parish in the city. This weekend while Father Angelo is here Father Matt is preaching in the city. Father Angelo is a native of Holy Angels parish here in Barrington. He attended local schools (Nayatt, Peck, and the High School). His seminary education took him to Regina Apostorium in Rome and Mt. St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmetsburg, Maryland. Father Angelo was ordained in 1998 and spent several years at St. Mary’s Church in Cranston. I just met Father Angelo when I was stationed at Sacred Heart Church in East Providence. We worked together on several Search for Maturity Retreats at the CYO Center. I am sure you will enjoy his presence among us.

Fr. Bob Hawkins - March 8 2008

Parish Feedback: Strenghen What We Have

Last week we had a very productive open parish meeting which was hosted by the parish council. The gist of the meeting was that we need to strengthen what we already have going on in the parish. Here is the listing of some of the suggestions:

• Continue to offer opportunities for our young people to connect with the parish. People are especially enthused about our mission trip experience. A woman commented that young people like to “do” rather than just listen. At the meeting we talked about our plans to hire a youth minister.
• Start a mentoring program for new parishioners. A veteran member would make contact with a new member of the parish.
• Need for a volunteer coordinator.
• Keep updating our web site and even have some of our young people help with the design.
• Have a quarterly penance service.
• Have seminars in adult education on themes like communication in marriage, how to
  pray, scripture studies, etc.
• Make people aware of our Eucharistic adoration which occurs every Monday here at St. Luke’s.

I am very happy to be the pastor of this vibrant community. I am never bored!

Please support our mission this week as we welcome back Father David Gaffney.

Fr. Bob Hawkins - February 24, 2008

Construction; Literally & Figuratively

As you read your reflections, I am away on vacation. It is good to get away from the noise, dirt and confusion of the rectory. As you know we are now under renovation. The progress has been very good over the course of the past few weeks. Our initial goals are to finish the new garage and the office area. Both Father Matt and I will now have offices on the first floor which will give us a better separation between our work and living areas. The next phase of the project will be the kitchen and an expanded dining room. We estimate the cost of the project to be $280,000. Every week we have had meetings with all those connected to the project.

On February 11 (Monday) at 7 p.m. in the church, there will be an open parish meeting. When I arrived in 2005 we had a very productive meeting where hopes and dreams for the parish were discussed. Now it is time to take a look at how far we’ve come and where we would like to continue to grow. Ed Caron, a personal friend, who works at Providence College will facilitate this meeting. As a leader I need to listen carefully to your ideas. Please come and join us on February 11th.

Fr. Bob Hawkins - January 27, 2008

Respecting Life

As we celebrate Pro-Life Month, below are some recent statements with regard to showing respect for the dignity of human life.

Studies published…in the journals Cell and Science offer new hope for advancing stem cell research and therapies while maintaining respect for the dignity of human life.

Scientists in Japan and Wisconsin used four genes to “reprogram” ordinary adult human cells, creating “induced pluripotent stem cells (IPS cells)…Thus the goal sought for years through failed attempts at human cloning – the production of “pluripotent” stem cells that are an exact match to a patient – has been brought within reach by an ethical procedure.

The technology avoids the ethical landmines associated with embryonic stem cell research: it does not clone or destroy human embryos, (and) does not harm or exploit women for their eggs…This advance reminds us once again that medical progress and respect for human life are not in conflict…”

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Statement
on Stem Cell Breakthrough, Nov. 20, 2007

“The Church is not trying to impose Catholic doctrine on the world, but we are trying to invite our people to take seriously their obligation to vote in a way that respects the moral law, the natural law, and takes into account the common good, care for the poor, and particularly the Gospel of Life, which is always at the center of Catholic social teaching…”

Cardinal Sean O’Malley, commenting on
“Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship”, Nov. 15, 2007

Fr. Bob Hawkins - January 20, 2008

Everyday Blessings

Several people have asked me for the blessing I used on Holy Family Sunday. It comes from Edward Hays' book Prayers for the Domestic Church. May this prayer be beneficial for all our families in the new year.

“Lord our God, you whose home is in heaven and on earth and in that undiscovered beyond, come and bless this house…Surround this shelter with your Spirit. Encompass all its four sides with the Power of your protection. Blessed be this doorway. May all who come to it be treated with respect and kindness. May all our comings and goings be under the seal of God’s loving care… Blessed be all the rooms of this home… May we truly live in it as people of peace… Bless this place where we shall eat. May all our meals be sacraments of the presence of God… Lord our God, may your name always be holy in our home…May God’s blessings rest upon us all… Amen.”

Fr. Bob Hawkins - January 12, 2008

Restoration

After much planning, the rectory restoration project has begun. The R & D Construction Company of Warren has been engaged to accomplish the project. For your information, a new garage is the first order of business, followed by the construction of new offices (where the present garage is) and lastly there will be a new kitchen and dining room.

We ask for your patience throughout this process which should take between 3 and 4 months. Any donations to help defray the cost will be gratefully accepted. Funds from last year’s auction as well as the monthly building and maintenance collection will be used.

Fr. Bob Hawkins - November 18, 2007

Life is Unending

A big "thank you" to our Bereavement Committee and choir who organized our annual Mass of Rememberance last Friday evening. November is the month that we remember all those who have returned home to God. We pray that our loved ones will share in Christ's victory over sin and death.

The following prayer by Bede Jarrett has been a favorite of mine for many years. It reflects the liturgical mood of November:

"We give him/her back to you, O Lord, who first gave him/her to us, and as you did not lose him/her in the giving so we do not lose him/her in the return. Not as the world gives do you give, O Lover of souls! For what is your is ours also, if we belong to you. Life is unending because love is undying, and the boundaries of this mortal life are but an horizon, and an horizon is but the limit of our sight. Lift us up, strong Son of God, that we may see further! Strengthen us in faith, that we may see beyond the horizon! And while you prepare a place for us, as you have promised, prepare us also for that happy place, that where you are we may be also, with those we have loved, forever."

Fr. Bob Hawkins - November 10, 2007

Stewardship - October 28, 2007

Last weekend’s Ministry Fair yielded over 80 new people involved in various ministries here at St. Luke’s. A big thank you to Bill Sweeney, Gus Morelli, Tina Peck, Michele Pimentel, Ann Marie Beccue and Ann Molak who make up our stewardship committee. It was also very heartwarming to hear our lay witness talks. This gives stewardship a human face here at St. Luke’s. I am reminded today of the words of Jesus: “To whom much is given, much is expected.” St. Luke’s parish is rich in time, talent and treasure. May we be inspired to use it to build up Christ’s Body here at St. Luke’s.
Fr. Bob Hawkins - October 28, 2007

Where are those Missing Catholics? - October 17 2007

A few months back Church Magazine had an article entitled “Where are those Missing Catholics?” by Peter Feuerherd. For a long time the Church has been talking about evangelization. Simply, this means sharing the message of Jesus in a compelling way. According to the research group CARA, 27 percent of the U.S. population was raised Catholic. Of that group 74 percent are still Catholic. In other words, many Catholics have drifted away and strategies need to be developed to invite them back.

I would like to suggest a few ways here at St. Luke’s for us to be more effective in our outreach. One of the most powerful parts of our Catholic faith is our sacramental life. Every sacramental opportunity is an excellent chance to evangelize. A kind word or an inspired message at key life events, such as marriages and funerals can make an impact. Reaching out to couples bringing their children for baptism is another. Effective parent meetings on the occasion of First Penance and First Eucharist are essential. Developing a RCIA program that can both inform and welcome people inquiring about the faith can also be an effective way to evangelize.

Beyond the sacraments, developing a welcoming environment at the weekend liturgies needs to be examined. So often newcomers say you can walk into church and no one talks to you. Parishioners need to be encouraged to invite people they know to come to church. Personal invitation has proven to be more valuable than other forms of advertising, including newspaper and television ads.

Feuerherd ends his article by saying the following, “Whatever the technique, the sociological experts agree that attracting fallen-away Catholics is not going to happen on its own. They counsel that parishes are content to keep the sacraments and the faith for those who show up at their doors are guaranteed to have lackluster growth of face decline.”

Father Bob Hawkins- October 17 2007

Engaged in a delicate dance - Sept 29, 2007

A few weeks back the Saturday religion page had an article entitled “New Orleans Clergy Need Counseling Themselves”. The article highlighted how hard it is at times to give comfort and solace to people in need. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina many ministers find it necessary to seek help themselves. Some ministers have had experiences where they have felt deeply the absence of God. Often they find themselves quoting the words of Jesus from the cross, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken Me?”

Indeed to be a minister means you are engaged in a delicate dance. Along with time for others you need to acknowledge your own need for support, rest and intimacy with the Lord and others. More and more when I pray for the sick I also pray for their caregivers that they may not tire in the process. For me, I find support in my love for reading, cooking and music. I’m fortunate to have a few close friends and a supportive family. I write this message today to encourage all of you to get the support you need to flourish in your vocations.
Fr. Bob Hawkins - Sept 29, 2007

School opens Wednesday August 29!

As St. Luke’s School opens this Wednesday we are welcoming Maureen Jannetta as our new principal. Maureen comes highly regarded from St. Peter’s School in Warwick where she was principal for seven years. Already Maureen has been very proactive in developing strategies to improve our school. She has met weekly with our new middle school team, participated in our staff meetings and met with leaders of our boards. I am thrilled to be working with her as we seek to make our school an exciting learning community. Maureen is a woman of great faith who is committed to the educational mission of our church. Welcome Maureen and may you be with us for many happy years.

Father Bob Hawkins-AUGUST 25, 2007

Why spend your money for what is not bread? July-29-2007

Karl Barth, one of last century’s great theologians, said that one preaches with a Bible in one hand and the news-paper in the other. Last weekend both Father Matt and I tried to do just that. Obviously, we struck a few raw nerves here in Barrington. Over and over we hear the mantra, “When will these young people learn.” But it is not just the young people, it’s all of us who live in this town. We need to learn that material things (i.e. status, fast living, cars, alcohol) do not address our deepest hungers. Today’s reading at morning prayer came from the prophet Isaiah, “Why spend your money for what is not bread, your wages for what fails to satisfy? Heed me, and you shall eat well, you shall delight in rich fare. Come to me heedfully, listen, that you may have life.” (Isaiah 55, 1-3).

In our lives we are always restless. All of us live on Long Island in that we long for power, affection, control,status. In listening to our God we find the rest and peace only God can give. My hope as the pastor of this parish is that we can take the recent events and use them as a wake-up call to return humbly to our God.

Father Bob Hawkins July-29-2007

Photo of stained glass at St. Mary's Church, Newport, RI by Chuck Anastasia

Heartfelt appreciation from Bishop Tobin - JUNE 23, 2007

This week Fr. Bob wrote:

I received the following:

“Dear Father Hawkins:

Congratulations to you and your parish community for surpassing your goal for the 2007 Catholic Charity Fund Appeal. I am grateful to you for your hard work, dedicated involvement, and outstanding leadership that you have demonstrated to ensure the success of your parish’s 2007 Appeal effort.

Please extend my gratitude to the lay leadership and parishioners who made this success possible. Now in its 82nd year, the annual Catholic Charity Fund Appeal has helped tens of thousands of needy Rhode Islanders. On behalf of those who benefit from the Appeal each year, I extend my heartfelt appreciation….”

Sincerely yours,
Thomas J. Tobin
Bishop of Providence

JUNE 23, 2007

I’ll know excellence when I see it - June 3, 2007

I subscribe to Church Magazine a quarterly publication, which always has helpful articles on ministry. Recently I read an article by David DeLambo entitled “In Search of Pastoral Excellence”. The article probes the possibility of identifying certain characteristics that make a parish excellent. We are familiar with the saying, “I’ll know it when I see it”. It is more difficult to name, define or measure pastoral excellence. Yet the article highlights these five marks of an excellent parish: 1) preaching that connects Scripture to daily life; 2) attending to the needs of the sick, homebound and bereaved; 3) having a pastor and staff energized and enthusiastic about ministry; 4) liturgies that are prayerful, reverent, and spiritually moving; 5) engaging in outreach to the poor.

I believe in the quest for excellence. As my dad used to say, “If you are going to do a job, do it right”. Here at St. Luke’s we set lofty goals. Are we there yet? Probably not, but we are on the road.
Fr. Bob Hawkins June 3, 2007

Rectory Rennovations & Other Happenings - MAY 20, 2007

On May 7th a delegation from the parish presented plans to the Building Commission of the Diocese for the rectory/office project. We are awaiting their approval before we put the various projects out to bid. In short, we are looking at a new kitchen, better offices for the priests and office workers, and a bigger dining area. Last year’s successful auction, the monthly building and maintenance collection and parish reserves make this project fiscally feasible. More details will be forthcoming as we move forward.

A big thank you to all who made Lukasz’s diaconate ordination so beautiful. The choir, environment and reception committees did an outstanding job in coordinating the event.

The institution of communion under both species goes well. It will take a few more weeks to improve the flow of communion. Thanks especially to our Eucharistic Ministers who are working overtime these weekends.

Fr. Bob Hawkins - MAY 20, 2007

How I prepare my homilies - MAY 12, 2007

In last Sunday’s paper there was an article about how preachers prepare their homilies. I thought you might like to know the process I use. For 15 years I have met every 2 weeks with Fr. Joseph Creedon and Fr. Jack Heaney. We do some preparing ahead of time and then share our insights about the readings. I use various resources such as Connections, Celebrations, Good News. These are all publications with good ideas. On late Friday afternoon and early Saturday morning I take all the data from our study group and begin to craft the homily for the week. I try to be aware of what’s going on in the parish and in the world. The word of God is so often fleshed out in the events of our life. I then try to make a connection between our human experiences and what God’s word means to us today.

This weekend Luke Willenberg is to be ordained a deacon. I pray that as he ponders God’s word he will bring that word effectively into people’s lives. All of us are so proud of Luke and feel honored to have played a part in his formation for ordination.

Fr. Bob Hawkins - MAY 12, 2007

Good Shepherd Sunday - APRIL 29, 2007

This is Good Shepherd Sunday where we reflect on Jesus as the one who leads, protects and loves His people. In the Book of Revelation it says

“The one who sits on the throne will shelter them. They will not hunger or thirstanymore, nor will the sun or any heat strike them. For the Lamb who is in the center of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to springs of life-giving water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”

Today our world needs to hear the voice of the Shepherd. This becomes increasingly difficult when so many other voices clamor for our attention. We live in a world of violence as the tragedy at Virginia Tech reminds us. We live in a world that says “look out for number 1,” the one with the most toys wins, don’t get even, get ahead. In this world we can so easily miss the voice of the Shepherd that urges us “to act justly, love tenderly and walk humbly with our God.”

Next weekend our second graders will receive Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament for the first time. We pray especially for the parents of these children. May they be true Shepherds to lead their children to God. For the Word of God to be heard we need to create strong communities where the Word of God can be heard and celebrated. We speak a lot today of “safeenvironment” to protect our children. May our parish be one safe environment where the Word of God can grow in thehearts of our children.

Fr. Bob Hawkins - APRIL 29, 2007

Photo of Good Shepard Window from Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Tucson, AZ by Lars Hammer via flickr used with permission under a Creative Commons Licnese

Upcoming Events at St. Luke's - APRIL 22-2007

It was nice to have Luc Willenberg join us for the Easter Vigil. It brought back good memories of the time he spent with us last summer. On May 12 he will be ordained a deacon at the Cathedral by Bishop Tobin.

The next morning here at 11:30 a.m. he will diaconate and preach at the liturgy. Afterwards there will be a reception in the parish hall. Here’s where you can help. We are asking parishioners to help with baking, setting up and with keeping everything flowing smoothly during the reception. If you can help please call Ann Marie at the rectory.

Also we will be instituting Communion under both species on the weekend of May 5-6. If you attended the Vigil you saw the procedure. To institute the practice we need a few instructional sessions. Here are 3 opportunities to come and learn the procedure:
Saturday, April 28th at 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, April 29th at 9:30 a.m.
Monday, April 30th at 7:00 p.m.

Please pick one of these sessions. Thank you!

I’m sure we are all anxious to see how Fr. Matt and our young people made out in Jamaica. In the days ahead we will be hearing from them.
Fr. Bob Hawkins - APRIL 22-2007

A wonderful Holy Week here at St. Luke’s - APRIL 15, 2007

It was a wonderful Holy Week here at St. Luke’s. So many people got involved in so many areas of parish life. A big thank you to the environment committee, Steve Kirby and the choir, the lectors, altar servers and reception committee.

Both on Holy Thursday and the Easter Vigil we offered Holy Communion under both species. We are planning to initiate this practice on a weekly basis starting the weekend of May 5-6. There will be some training sessions for our Eucharistic ministers.

Please keep Fr. Matt and the mission group in your prayers during this week. A big thank you to all who were so generous to this worthwhile cause.

Fr. Bob Hawkins - APRIL 15, 2007